3-2-1: how Arsenal did the unthinkable, Chicago fell to a high-flying Current, and Gotham hoisted a brand new trophy
Three games, two insights per game, and one visualisation each — here’s the 3-2-1 wrap-up of this weekend’s women’s footie action.
This edition of 3-2-1 is a little special; I’ve handed over the reins to
Game 1: Arsenal WFC [1] vs FC Barcelona [0], UEFA Women’s Champions League Final, 24th May 2025
I. Against all odds, Europe has a new champion: Arsenal. It was a stark departure from the clinic put on by Barcelona at Stamford Bridge a month ago, and a reminder that the Catalans have a poor game in them, too. Despite winning the xG battle on Saturday, Barça managed just 1 shot above 0.15 xG and averaged 0.05 xG/shot — as a reminder, in the semifinals, they generated 8 and 0.21, respectively. Arsenal logged one shot above 0.15 xG: Stina Blackstenius’ game-winning goal in the 74th minute.
II. Barcelona failed to generate real danger inside the box, but a large reason for that was Leah Williamson’s formidable presence. The defender completed 14 clearances while her partner on the backline, Steph Catley, had 10 of her own.
Game 2: Chicago Stars FC [1] vs Kansas City Current [3], NWSL, 24th May 2025
I. It was a pitiful day for the Chicago Stars, who ended the game with just 0.07 xG from two shots, both by Shea Groom. Groom’s goal totalled 0.061 xG, while her previous shot right before half-time came in at 0.009 xG. The Stars’ xG total was the lowest of any team in a game this season.
II. After losing twice at the end of April and beginning of May, the Current are back on top of the NWSL table and have extended their lead to 4 points. The team leads the league in goals scored and remain the only side without a draw, winning 8 of 10 overall.
Game 3: Gotham FC [2] vs CF Tigres [0], CONCACAF W Champions Cup, 24th May 2025
I. The inaugural CONCACAF W Champions Cup was hoisted by Gotham on Saturday after two poor penalties almost caused the game to slip through their hands. The first from Purce at the end of the first-half was parried away by Itel González, but the Tigres goalkeeper was far less lucky on the second; her save against Esther in the 82nd minute was important but, ultimately, in vain, with the rebound falling directly to the striker herself, who finished it with ease.
II. A few tame efforts were all Tigres could muster. The Mexican side retained just 20.8% of the field tilt, with Gotham dominating the field and their opponent’s final third. In the end, Tigres managed just 0.67 xG and the game was left in Gotham’s hands.
Data source: Opta
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